Dear New Teacher,
Welcome to the most rewarding, challenging, hilarious, and sometimes downright perplexing profession: teaching. First off, congratulations on embarking on this incredible journey. As seasoned educators (translation: we’ve been around long enough to know overhead projectors, mimeographs, and chalk – be glad you missed that time period), we’d like to share a few pieces of wisdom to help you navigate your first year.
1. Build Relationships
This is the heart of teaching. Relationships matter more than anything else. With your students, with your colleagues, with the administration, with the office staff, and especially with the custodians who will save you more times than you can count. These connections will create a support system that’s essential for both your students’ growth and your sanity.
Don’t be afraid to reach out for help – you don’t have to do it alone. In fact, no one expects you to. Whether you need advice on handling a tough class, or just a sympathetic ear to vent to, lean on those around you. And offer your help when you can, too. Your energy, enthusiasm, and perspective might be exactly what someone needs to reignite their fire for teaching! Relationships are a two-way street. Sometimes, just knowing someone else is in the same boat makes the journey a bit easier.
2. Create Boundaries
You know the saying, “Put on your oxygen mask before helping others”? It’s true for teaching too. To be the best educator you can be, you need to take care of yourself first. Spend time outside of school doing things that make you laugh, challenge you, and help you recharge.
Whether it’s yoga, knitting, running, or binge-watching that show you love, make time for it.
Your students will benefit from a teacher who is energized, inspired, and ready to tackle the day. Remember, it’s okay to say no sometimes. Protect your time and well-being so you can continue to give your best to those future generations.
3. Smile Before December
There’s this old piece of advice that you shouldn’t smile before December to maintain control over your classroom. We’re here to tell you that’s absolute nonsense. Your job is about spending time with kids, and kids respond to warmth and authenticity.
Set high expectations, absolutely. Teach your students how to meet those expectations with clear guidance and support. But also, laugh with them, enjoy their quirky sense of humor, and celebrate their successes. Write down the witty things they say – you’ll treasure these moments for many years to come.
Teaching is an art, not just a job. You’re the artist, creating an environment where students can thrive. So, smile, laugh, and enjoy the process.
The first year of teaching is tough. Actually, they all are. But you’ll learn so much in this next school year! There will be laughter, frustration, light-bulb moments (for both you and the students), and tears (again, probably from both you and the students). But it will be a year you’ll never forget.
If you ever feel alone, confused, or in need of guidance, remember you’re not. Join the Positive School Solutions community where you’ll find hundreds of teachers and administrators ready to lend an ear, share an idea, or offer a helping hand.
We’re here cheering you on for a fantastic first year!
Warmest regards,
Your Experienced Mentors
Written by Sarah Fillion 2024
